South Jersey Workers’ Compensation Attorneys – Exposure to Harmful Substances at Work
Working in any job can expose you to various risks, but some jobs have the added danger of harmful substances. If you’ve been hurt at work because of exposure to toxic chemicals or other dangerous substances, you’re not alone. At Petrillo & Goldberg Law, we understand the challenges you face and are here to help you navigate your workers’ compensation claim. Our New Jersey workers’ compensation lawyers have decades of experience connecting injured workers with meaningful compensation for what they’ve been through, helping them get back on their feet, back to work, and on with their lives.
Common Harmful Substances in the Workplace
You might encounter various harmful substances in your work environment. These substances can lead to serious health issues, especially with prolonged exposure. Here are some common harmful substances you might come across:
- Asbestos: Used in construction materials, asbestos fibers can cause lung diseases, including cancer, when inhaled.
- Chemicals: Cleaning agents, solvents, and pesticides can be toxic and cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, and long-term health issues.
- Lead: Found in old paints and pipes, lead exposure can lead to severe health problems, especially for the nervous system.
- Silica: Common in construction, inhaling silica dust can cause lung disease.
- Mold: In damp environments, mold can grow and release spores that cause respiratory issues and allergic reactions.
Health Effects of Exposure
Exposure to harmful substances can lead to a range of health problems. These effects can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), depending on the substance and the level of exposure. Below is a list of some of the health issues you might face, depending on the nature and duration of your exposure.
Acute Health Effects
- Skin Irritation: Rashes, redness, and itching from direct contact with chemicals.
- Respiratory Problems: Difficulty breathing, coughing, and irritation of the nose and throat from inhaling toxic fumes or dust.
- Poisoning: Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and headaches from ingesting or inhaling harmful substances.
Chronic Health Effects
- Cancer: Long-term exposure to substances like asbestos and certain chemicals can increase the risk of cancer.
- Lung Diseases: Conditions like asbestosis, silicosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) from inhaling toxic dust or fumes.
- Neurological Disorders: Lead exposure can cause cognitive issues, memory loss, and other neurological problems.
- Reproductive Issues: Some chemicals can affect fertility and cause birth defects.
Your Rights and Workers’ Compensation as a New Jersey Employee
If you’ve been exposed to harmful substances at work, you have rights. Workers’ compensation laws in New Jersey are designed to protect you. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. Here’s what you need to know:
- Medical Treatment: You’re entitled to receive medical care for your work-related illness or injury.
- Lost Wages: If you cannot work because of your exposure, you may receive compensation for lost income.
- Permanent Disability: If your exposure leads to a permanent disability, you may receive additional benefits.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: If you cannot return to your previous job, you may receive assistance with retraining for a new position.
Steps to Take if You’ve Been Exposed To a Harmful Substance at a New Jersey Worksite
If you believe you’ve been exposed to harmful substances at work, take immediate action to protect your health and your rights. Here are the steps you should follow:
- Seek Medical Attention: Visit a doctor immediately, even if you don’t have symptoms yet. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent more serious health problems.
- Report the Exposure: Notify your employer about the exposure as soon as possible. Provide details about the substance and how you were exposed.
- Document Everything: Keep records of your medical visits, treatments, and any correspondence with your employer. This documentation will be crucial for your workers’ compensation claim.
- File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: Submit your claim promptly to ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.
- Consult a Workers’ Compensation Attorney: Contact Petrillo & Goldberg Law to guide you through the process and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Why You Need a New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Navigating the workers’ compensation system can be complex, especially when dealing with exposure to harmful substances. Having a New Jersey workers’ compensation attorney from Petrillo & Goldberg Law on your side is crucial because we bring unrivaled skill and experience to your case. Below is a list of just a few things we’ll do to resolve your case in the most favorable way possible.
- Expert Guidance: Our attorneys specialize in workers’ compensation cases and understand the intricacies of the law.
- Evidence Collection: We help gather and present the necessary evidence to support your claim.
- Negotiation: We negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Appeals: If your claim is denied, we handle the appeals process to fight for your rights.
Real-Life New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Cases We’ve Handled
At Petrillo & Goldberg Law, we’ve helped many workers like you. Here are some real-life cases where we made a difference:
- Construction Worker with Asbestos Exposure: A construction worker developed lung disease after years of exposure to asbestos. We helped him secure the compensation needed for his medical treatment and lost wages.
- Factory Worker with Chemical Burns: A factory worker suffered chemical burns from a spill. We assisted in getting the necessary medical care and compensation for his recovery.
- Office Worker with Mold Exposure: An office worker experienced severe respiratory issues due to mold in the building. We ensured she received appropriate medical treatment and compensation for her time off work.
Contact Petrillo & Goldberg Law Today
If you’ve been exposed to harmful substances at work, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Petrillo & Goldberg Law today. We have decades of experience helping injured workers obtain the compensation they need to get back on their feet after a workplace accident, and look forward to discussing how we can help with your claim. We’re here to support you every step of the way, from filing your claim to securing your compensation. Our team is ready to listen to your story and provide the assistance you need. You can reach us at (856) 486-4343 or through our secure online contact form.
